WHO reveals gaps in maternal mental health services in Zanzibar

ZANZIBAR: NEARLY one in three expectant mothers in Zanzibar experience mental health challenges during pregnancy, while 26 per cent of mothers continue to face similar issues after childbirth, according to preliminary findings from a new study conducted by the Ministry of Health in collaboration with the World Health Organisation (WHO).

The findings were presented at a one-day meeting held at Kariakoo in the Urban West Region.

The Director of Preventive Services and Health Education in Zanzibar, Dr Salim Slim said the research will play a vital role in informing the government to apply more efforts to improve maternal health both during pregnancy and postpartum.

“Zanzibar still lags behind in addressing maternal mental health,” Dr Slim acknowledged.

“However, the Ministry in partnership with health stakeholders is committed to tackling the root causes to protect mothers and children and reduce maternal deaths.”

WHO Tanzania representative Dr Amanda Kimonge emphasised the importance of early detection of mental health issues, highlighting family-related stress as a major contributing factor.

ALSO READ: Govt vows nationwide health services expansion

She called for the creation of supportive environments for pregnant women to ensure better outcomes.

The ongoing study, which began in January 2025, surveyed 418 mothers across three health facilities Chukwani, Mtofani and Mpendae and is being conducted by trained doctors and nurses.

Mental Health Coordinator at the Ministry, Hamida Naufal Kassim stressed the urgent need to expand maternal mental health services, train healthcare workers and provide mental health education in clinics to help reduce maternal deaths and related complications.

Participants at the meeting, including Mr Ramadhan Bakar and Ms Aisha Mohammed said the study had shed light on critical challenges facing mothers, especially the lack of family support, which emerged as one of the most pressing issues.